Georges Dreyer facts for kids
Georges Dreyer (born July 4, 1873 – died August 17, 1934) was a Danish scientist. He was a pathologist, which means he studied diseases and how they affect the body. He also became a member of the important Royal Society.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Georges Dreyer was born in Shanghai, China. His father was an officer in the Royal Danish Navy who was working there.
In 1900, Georges Dreyer finished his medical degree. He studied at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. After that, he started working in bacteriology. This is the study of tiny living things called bacteria. He even spent time at the Finsen Institute in Copenhagen, a famous research center.
Career at Oxford University
In 1907, Dreyer moved to England. He became the very first professor of pathology at Oxford University. He held this important job until 1934, the year he passed away.
During World War I, Dreyer helped the British military. He worked as an advisor for the Royal Flying Corps. This group was the early version of the Royal Air Force. In May 1921, he was chosen to be a fellow of the Royal Society. This is a big honor for scientists.
Scientific Discoveries
Dreyer focused on studying bacteriology and virology. Virology is the study of viruses, which are even smaller than bacteria. He did a lot of research on vaccines and how our bodies become immune to diseases.
Understanding Blood
He also studied blood volume. This is how much blood is in the body. He looked at how blood volume changed in different species of animals. He also studied how blood volume related to an animal's size and weight.
Dreyer also improved a test called the Widal test. This test helps doctors find out if someone has typhoid or paratyphoid fever.
Aviation and Oxygen Research
Georges Dreyer is also known for his work on how people breathe. This is called respiratory physiology. He did experiments with oxygen for people flying airplanes. This field is known as aviation medicine.
During World War I, he created a special device. This device could give pilots air with less oxygen. This helped him study the effects of hypoxia, which is when the body doesn't get enough oxygen. He also made a successful system to deliver oxygen to pilots. He even helped set up the first low-pressure chamber at a British university. This chamber could simulate high-altitude conditions.
See also
- Pathology
- List of pathologists
